For 65 years, Milledgeville held the title of State Capitol of Georgia. But it wasn't until 1839, 36 years later, that the governor's mansion was built there.

"We have to take care of the life of the building, protect the building," said James Turner, director of the Old Governor's Mansion.

The old home is currently undergoing a $300,000 face lift. Some of the wooden trim and shutters are gone, they are being cleaned, sanded, and painted before being re-installed.

"This is to prevent any deterioration to the historic wood," said Turner.

The mansion was declared a national landmark in 1973. It's part of the less than 3 percent of U.S. buildings to bare the designation.

"That tells you that this is a very, very important site," said Turner. "The people of central Georgia are very fortunate to have it."

Rain delayed Tuesday's progress in restoring this Greek Revival Style building, but it didn't stop the learning.

"Our primary goal is educational outreach," said Turner.

"I'm going to have a lot of questions in this house!," exclaimed a young inquisitive tourist.

Turner led a group of Wilkinson County students on a tour of the 200 year old structure.

"Right now we have a 19th century clothing exhibit on display."

The exhibit features clothing worn by women and children of that era. The tour also featured stops in nearly every functioning room, hallway and staircase of the building.

"Everything in the house is authentic," said Turner. "We have a few pieces that are original to the house, but everything that you saw today is based on the original inventory of the building."

By the end of the project, Turner hopes the exterior will look as if it were 1866.

The conservation project is expected to be completed by early November. Despite the scaffolds surrounding the building, officials want you to know the building is open, and encourage you to stop by for a tour.